24 Hours in Edinburgh

Part brooding Gothic beauty, part festival venue extraordinaire, the Scottish capital is awash with charming contradictions. And, whether you're looking for sparky satire or a man in a kilt, the 24 Essential Hours has got it covered.

Princes Street Gardens

Start the day right in the centre of the city. Created in 1820, the gardens lie in the shadow of the castle and afford fine views of the Scott Monument and the bagpipers of Prince's Street during tourist season.

Rose Street

Try a cafe here for a traditional fry-up - white pudding, fried haggis, potato scones and oatcakes are optional - then walk off your full Scottish breakfast with a stroll along this pretty street.

The Scott Monument

This eye-catching gothic monument to the author Walter Scott is not for the claustrophobic. The 1844 structure is a tight, awkward and spiralling climb up 287 steps. Still, those who make it to the top will get a grand morning view of Edinburgh East.

The World's End Pub

The World's End is an Edinburgh institution, and offers one of the best pub lunches in the city. Combine whiskies with trad Scottish fare - haggis, neeps and tatties if you're feeling bold - but get there early because it is ALWAYS popular.

Address: 4 High Street

Tel: +44 (0)131 556 3628

Secrets Of The Royal Mile Tour

Uncover the secrets of Dr Jekyll, Mr Hyde and Half-Hangit Maggie on a tour of the ancient and dramatic Royal Mile, which connects the palace of Holyrood with the castle.

The Elephant House

This cool tea and coffee house round the corner from the castle is perfect for hanging out and people watching. Try the Elephant's Treat - hot chocolate with brandy and Kahlua, topped with whipped cream.

The Secret Garden at The Witchery

Almost as romantic as the castle next door, entering the Secret Garden - or any part of the Witchery - is like stepping into a Scottish gothic fantasy. If you really fall in love you can stay the night, too.

Ocean Terminal, Leith

Leith is where Edinburgh meets the sea at the Firth Of Forth, and is the home of the Royal Yacht Britannia. Mooch about by the waterfront; otherwise, Ocean Terminal has a host of shops, plenty of bars and restaurants and a cinema open until midnight..

Fish and Chips

Stroll around the Royal Mile and the Old Town in search of that Scottish ultimate late-night delicacy - fish and chips with salt 'n' sauce. Better than a kebab any day.

Lulu's

This may be the coolest bar/club in the capital. Tucked beneath the equally alluring Tigerlily Hotel, Lulu's is slick, sophisticated and slightly... saucy. If there are celebs in town, you'll find them here.

Arthur's Seat

Penny Black Pub

Is it still last night or tomorrow morning? Either way get to the pub as it opens for a refreshing pint - a lively local crowd makes this the ideal 'hair of the dog' venue.

Address: 17 West Register Street

Tel: +44 (0)131 556 1106

Greyfriars' Bobby

Dogs really are a man's best friend. Here lies the statue of Greyfriars' Bobby, a tribute to Skye terrier Bobby who refused to leave owner John Gray's grave for 14 years, despite being repeatedly chased out of the churchyard. Aaaaw.